Hello again! So sorry for the delay! Felt like I lost my confidence there for a while, but I finally got back on the horse :) This is a continuation of the 'Housewarming' mini-series and will pick up from the last chapter. I really tried to make this fun - I know some of us still need our Caryl feels healed! Watch as our couple tries to navigate their new relationship while keeping it hidden from the others ;)
Disclaimer: I do not own The Walking Dead
Chapter 17: Caving
Daryl knew it was wrong…revealing…but he couldn't seem to take his eyes off of her. They were on opposite sides of the counter that doubled as a breakfast bar. Carol was seated on a stool, her elbows resting lightly on the polished granite. A bowl of apple slices sat untouched in front of her.
The hunter stood, his fingers curling restlessly around the edge of the counter. He was working to keep his expression sullen, or at least neutral, but it was easier said than done. Nipping the corner of his bottom lip, Daryl waited.
Carol was practiced in the art of deception and seemed to have no trouble remaining completely calm…indifferent even. Her eyes flicked to her partner's face for half a second before she refocused on her breakfast. Knowing that he was watching her every move, she carefully plucked a thick slice from the bowl and brought it to her lips.
Daryl grunted softly and clawed the smooth counter-top without thinking about it. She was looking at him again. Her eyes always managed to get a little brighter when she toyed with him. As he fought to keep himself under control, the hunter knew he'd never found any meal as fascinating as this one.
She gave him the slightest hint of a smile before taking a bite. A small groan of satisfaction escaped her as the smile spread on her face.
Blood was rushing below Daryl's belt; he cleared his throat to distract himself.
Carol popped the rest of the apple wedge into her mouth and enjoyed the crisp flavor.
"Ya likin' it?" the hunter asked in a low growl. He had to work to keep his voice even.
She chuckled lightly and used the back of her hand to wipe juice from her chin. "Very much. Nice to have fresh fruit in the morning." Carol paused to suck several of her fingertips. "Sweet…cold…you want some?" she asked, glancing at him.
But Daryl couldn't hear what she'd said. He could smell the apple…Carol's skin…he knew she'd had a shower before coming to breakfast. The combination of her natural scent, the fruit, and the soap she'd used was exciting him. He focused on her mouth; her bottom lip was wet with traces of juice. Forgetting himself, he let his eyes roam down her neck, to the well of her throat…even further, until he was staring at the tops of her breasts…the hint of cleavage her shirt revealed as she leaned over the counter.
Feeling her skin grow warm, Carol tore her eyes from his and grabbed another slice from the bowl. "Daryl?"
He swallowed hard and slowly met her gaze.
"Did you want some?"
The hunter's eyes narrowed. He knew what she was doing.
Carol let herself smirk a little and arched an eyebrow. "Fine." she shrugged. "More for me."
Daryl hated how mesmerizing she was. Everything about her…her collar bones, the faint dusting of freckles just above the dip in her cleavage… He wanted to reach across the counter and slip his hand down her shirt.
"Go on 'n finish your damn breakfast," he muttered.
"Fine." she sighed, her blue eyes on his face. "Really wish you'd eat something though."
In that moment, with the one thing he wanted more than anything else sitting just feet away, Daryl was tempted to make his way around the counter and take her. Part of him didn't care that Rick was seated on the living room couch, reading, or that Sasha was organizing supplies on the coffee table as she prepared for a run.
He could visualize it all in perfect detail…grabbing his woman by the waist…tearing at her clothes, sliding her pants down and ripping her panties off…having his way with her right there, in the bright light of day, in front of witnesses. Spreading her pale legs and devouring her… He could almost taste her pussy in his mouth. Before a growl could slip from between his teeth, the sound of approaching footsteps caught his attention. His eyes cut to the left just as Rick walked into the kitchen.
Completely unphased by anything that was taking place, Carol continued eating her apple slices.
"This is something." said Rick, as he set a stack of papers down on the counter and stood beside Daryl.
The hunter bowed his head and clawed the granite again before answering. "What ya readin'?"
Rick mimicked his friend's pose and braced his hands on the edge of the counter as he stared down at the collection of documents and hand-drawn blueprints.
Daryl was acutely aware of the state his body was in. He couldn't handle Rick, or any of the others, catching him with an erection…however slight. Doing his best to remain calm, he blew out a breath and glanced at the papers.
"Reg let me borrow 'em." said the deputy. "They're plans…for this place."
Carol looked up. "They realistic?" she asked.
"They could be. With time, and enough man-power. Him 'n Deanna wanna reinforce the fences, plant more gardens, get a hold of some livestock if we can."
Daryl found the distraction he needed. "They wantin' hogs? Cows?"
"Whatever we can find." Rick sighed.
The hunter leaned even further over the counter and drummed his fingers. "I don't know whereabouts we're gonna get cows, but I ran across somethin' I think we could use last time I went out."
The deputy turned to face his friend. "What's that?"
"A horse."
Rick's brows knit together. "Nearby?"
"Me 'n Aaron went out last week 'n saw him. He's been after him for a while."
Carol was chewing quietly as she listened.
"Think he's still around? Could really use an animal like that. For runs…scouting…whenever Reg 'n Deanna decide to break ground on these gardens. Be a big help to have that muscle." said Rick.
Daryl sighed through his nose and shrugged. "Damn thing took off at the sight of us. Could be he's hanging around. Been thinkin' I should go lookin'."
Carol stopped eating. They had her attention now. Three weeks had gone by since Deanna's party, and the lovers had realized just how difficult it was to maintain a healthy relationship without revealing it to anyone. They were both quick to anger any time either of them mentioned traveling beyond the walls of Alexandria.
Daryl and Carol were incredibly independent, stubborn people, and hadn't counted on the possibility that the other might try to control them at all. The first time Carol volunteered for a run after the party, the hunter pulled her aside the second they were alone. He all but threatened her to stay inside the walls, and it took an hour of negotiating before they came to the conclusion that they'd both go. Not wanting to arouse suspicion, they accepted the fact that they couldn't join forces for every run. But that didn't stop them from fighting or worrying.
Aside from dealing with separation anxiety whenever one of them stepped outside the safety of the walls, the lovers were growing tired of their lack of privacy. They'd both taken on multiple responsibilities since the party, and there seemed to be less and less time for…recreational activities.
Daryl hadn't been inside her in a week. Not since the day he went scouting with Aaron. She thought back to the fight they'd had when he told her he was going. They'd hissed and spat at one another, flinging excuses across the room until Daryl finally dragged her into the bathroom and took her on the floor, on her hands and knees. He'd given her such a powerful orgasm that she hadn't been able to fight him once he made his ultimate decision to go.
But seven days had passed since then. Daryl took a few night shifts in the guard tower while Carol pitched in at the infirmary and looked after Judith. She knew that if they'd really tried, they could've carved out a few minutes for one another, but Carol hadn't been in any rush to slip back into his bed. She was still peeved by the fact that he'd gotten his way by fucking her. Determined to punish her partner, Carol deliberately kept herself from him. When they happened to cross paths, she did everything in her power to entice him. She knew him well enough to know that he was nearing a breaking point.
This was the first day he'd been bold enough to openly stare at her while she ate her breakfast. He was losing patience, and the knowledge made Carol smirk. But the second he mentioned leaving the compound, the familiar blend of anger and doubt wormed its way back into her brain. As she stared across the counter at the man she'd grown so attached to, Carol saw an opportunity.
"You weren't gonna go alone were you?" she asked casually.
Rick and Daryl fixed their gazes on her. The hunter was immediately suspicious of her sudden interest in their conversation.
"Maybe. Why?" he growled.
The deputy stiffened as he eyed his companion. "Excuse me?"
Daryl realized his mistake a moment too late. He was fumbling for words that weren't coming.
Carol watched, amused, as the little scene played out.
"You were gonna go alone? That what you're tellin' me right now?" Rick asked.
The hunter sighed heavily through his nose.
"Since when do any of us go out alone?" The deputy didn't wait for an answer. He moved into Daryl's space and whispered harshly, "I'm tellin' you…it's not gonna happen. You're takin' someone or you're stayin'."
Carol laced her hands together under her chin and stared at the men. "I'll go."
Rick eyed her. "You sure?"
She shrugged and gave him a small smile. "Why not? My family had a farm when I was growing up. We kept a few horses. I could actually be of some use."
"So you can ride?" the deputy asked.
She cast the most subtle glance at her partner before answering. "I can."
Daryl was quietly seething. His leader and his mate had backed him into a corner.
"Sounds like ya'll got this shit figured out then." He growled.
Rick smiled and gave his friend a quick pat on the back. "We do. Let me know before you head out."
"Of course." said Carol.
The deputy gathered his papers and left his companions to their business. Once they were alone, the hunter glared at his woman. "Think you're real slick don't ya?"
She just smirked at him.
"Got everything just how ya wanted it." he snapped under his breath.
"You walked into it."
Daryl clawed the counter again. "Your ass ain't goin'. I'll find somebody else."
Carol sighed and stared down at what remained of her apple slices. "I guess you're right. You can find another partner." After several seconds of silence, she lifted her chin and met her lover's gaze. "But do you really wanna leave me here all day? Unsupervised?"
The hunter's suspicion increased tenfold. "Come again?"
"I don't have Judith today. Carl and Enid are watching her. I'm not scheduled to work in the infirmary…and maybe I'm wrong, but…I'm pretty sure my day is wide open."
Daryl was losing patience. He ran a hand angrily through his tangle of dark hair. "Go on 'n say what you're gettin' at woman."
"Well; I'll have to find something to occupy my time. I don't plan on sitting in this house all day. Guess I could always pay Stephen a visit."
The hunter felt his entire body tense. Since Deanna's party, he'd made every effort to keep the widower away from Carol. He'd even gone as far as to answer the door when Stephen came calling, and let the man know that Carol was busy. Daryl had been successful, for the most part. Stephen only managed to engage in brief conversations with Carol when everyone happened to be gathered in the chapel for town meetings. But the hunter refused to let his guard down for even a moment. He had no intentions of allowing the widower to get any closer.
Carol could see that she had his attention, and it was incredibly satisfying.
Daryl leaned over the counter, snarling quietly. "That what you want? To spend the day with that asshole?"
Undaunted, she cocked her head to the side. "I'd much rather be your back-up outside the walls, but if you just can't stomach that…then I do plan on accomplishing something today. I still need the keys to the arsenal…which I'm confident I would already have if you'd back off a little and let me work on him."
The hunter was beginning to tremble. He was trapped, and he hated it. Any way he looked at it, he was losing. He didn't want to spend the day tracking with Carol…alone with her, uninterrupted for what could be hours. Not that he didn't like being with her, but he knew what her end game was.
Woman just wants me to cave.
Daryl wasn't foolish. He knew he was still in the dog house for going on the run with Aaron. Carol hadn't let him touch her since. As much as he wanted her, he wasn't interested in apologizing. The hunter couldn't see anything wrong with what he'd done and he wasn't about to fall at his woman's feet to beg forgiveness.
Carol wore a smug expression as she watched her partner struggle. He had no way out.
Bitter words were locked behind his teeth; they were threatening to burst from Daryl's mouth at any moment, but he glanced to his left to remind himself of Rick and Sasha's presence in the living room.
Fuckin' hell.
Still seething, he returned his attention to his mate.
She loved that that he couldn't speak freely.
"Fine. Alright? You're comin'. Ya got one hour."
Carol just smiled at him. "Great."
Her expression was making his temperature rise. "I know what you're doin' and it ain't gonna work," he hissed.
"What's that?"
"You're just tryin' to get under my skin."
"Hm." She glanced at his groin. "I think I'm succeeding."
She'd figured out, early on, that there were several surefire ways to get Daryl excited. She knew that if she expressed any interest in his groin, his body would react. He hated it. He hated the fact that it was so easy for her to set him off. But the hunter couldn't deny how intoxicating it was when she stared at him.
They could be in the middle of a crowded room, and she'd still manage to make his blood rush south if she eyed his belt at all. Up until their recent dry spell, Carol had been very vocal…at least in bed, about her appreciation for Daryl's manhood. There were times when the hunter swore she even seemed fascinated…and she'd demonstrated that fascination in a variety of wonderful ways. But now…her attention was unwelcome.
"Quit." he breathed.
She cupped the side of her face with one delicate hand and met his gaze. "Why?"
"Cuz we're gonna be outside them walls in an hour…'n I ain't got time for this shit. You really wanna distract me right now?"
Carol kept her bright blue eyes on him. "So I am distracting you?"
Daryl reached up and tugged his hair as his eyes closed. Sighing heavily, he turned to walk away. "One hour." he growled without looking back at her.
"Sounds good." she called out before resuming her breakfast. There was a triumphant smirk on her face as she plucked the next apple wedge from the bowl.
Just focus. Keep your eyes open 'n focus.
Daryl's hands were on his hips as he paced. He'd been waiting near the main gate for the better part of fifteen minutes. His bad mood only worsened when he was forced to stop by the arsenal and borrow his own bow from Stephen.
Piece of shit's probably never even fired a damn gun.
He kicked at the ground, hoping to release some of the tension he'd been carrying for the last few days, but it was useless. There were only two outlets that he knew would truly work, and one of them was off the table. He either needed to kill something, or be with his woman.
Don't let her get to you. You cave now…'n she owns your ass.
A low growl was building in his chest. Daryl bristled at the idea of anyone having control over him, even if it was Carol. He thought back to the understanding they'd reached in the closet at Deanna's party.
It's us.
The hunter wondered if they'd entered into the agreement too quickly.
We weren't thinkin' straight.
But he knew that didn't matter. They meant what they said. They wanted each other, and that hadn't changed. The lovers simply failed to realize how difficult it would be to navigate a relationship. They seemed to constantly be engaged in some sort of power struggle. Daryl and Carol weren't used to submitting.
That's all she wants outta this. She don't give a shit about findin' that horse. Woman just wants to get ya alone until ya give in.
He could admit to himself that it was tempting. Daryl loved when the two of them were completely alone and Carol could get as loud as she wanted.
Nah.
He tried to shake off the sudden temptation.
Ain't worth it. Don't go sellin' your damn soul for a couple minutes in that pussy.
But Daryl missed her. Touching her, kissing her, being inside her…falling asleep with her. Some weak part of him ached for the contact. Before he could lose himself in thoughts of her body, the hunter kicked at the ground again.
Fuckin' quit. You need to wait her out. Ya went long enough without tail before her, 'n your ass can sure as hell go a little longer.
Determined to keep himself in check, the hunter stood up a little straighter and wiped the sweat from his upper lip. The sun was climbing overhead and Daryl reached for the canteen that hung from his belt. Just as the lukewarm water hit his tongue, he caught sight of Carol. She and Rick were walking down the main road; the two seemed to be chatting…laughing even. Daryl took another angry swig before screwing the cap back on.
She does that shit on purpose. Every little goddamn thing. Just tryin' to set ya off.
He wasn't sure how well he would fare outside the walls if his patience was already wearing thin.
Best get your shit together. She figures out she's gettin' to ya…your ass ain't gonna last long.
Exhaling slowly through his nose, the hunter waited for his friends. His blue eyes were narrowed and his guard was up.
"You sure you're up for this?" Rick asked.
Carol's fingers were curled around the straps of her backpack. "I'm sure."
"Can't remember the last time the two of you went out on your own."
"You worried?" she asked, glancing at her leader.
The deputy wore a tired smile. "I know you can handle yourselves. It's jus…Daryl still hasn't come around to all this." He gestured vaguely at their surroundings.
Carol eyed the pristine houses that lined either side of the street. "I know. But he will."
"I feel like bein' here's got him on edge, 'n I don't want him takin' it out on you."
She fought the urge to laugh. "You really think I'd let him?"
Rick turned in time to see her smirking at him. He shook his head and rubbed his neck. "Fair enough."
"We'll be fine. Doubt we'll go that far. He was right before. That horse probably stuck close."
"Got everything ya need?"
"I do." she smiled. "It's been a while, but I've done this before. Used to have a colt that managed to jump the fence every chance he got. Spent my fair share of time in the woods outside our property chasing after him. God…" she chuckled to herself. "I swear I must've cursed that stupid animal a thousand times."
"Who knew he was helping you prepare for life after the fall of man?"
Carol snorted and the two of them slowed their pace.
"Well, knowin' you've had some practice wranglin' stubborn animals eases my mind a little. Keep an eye on Daryl."
"You have my word." she said.
They allowed themselves to chuckle.
"Bout time." The hunter growled.
Rick and Carol had reached the main gate; they tried to wipe the smiles off their faces as they stood just a few feet from their friend.
"Somethin' funny?" he asked.
Carol cleared her throat. "No. All set here. Rick was just making sure we were squared away with supplies."
"Can't figure that out on your own? Need Rick to tell ya?"
The deputy didn't like Daryl's tone. He took a deliberate step forward, standing between Carol and the hunter.
"You good?" Rick asked, an edge to his voice.
Daryl held his ground but remained silent.
"Carol offered to help you. 'N I'm gonna need for you to rethink the way you're talkin' to her."
The hunter's blood was growing hot. He tried to look past his leader and catch a glimpse of his mate, but Rick moved even closer. Only a few inches of breathing room separated the two men as they glared at one another.
"Don't look at her; look at me. This is the last time I'm askin. You good?"
Swallowing his anger for the time being, Daryl held his friend's gaze. "I'm good."
Rick gave the hunter a slow nod and placed a hand on his shoulder. "Alright then. Stay safe."
Daryl merely grunted.
Finally stepping back, the deputy eyed his companions. They were two of his most capable fighters, and he knew they'd be able to tackle any obstacles they might encounter beyond the gate, but that didn't stop him from worrying.
"I want you both back before dark. We clear?"
Carol and Daryl answered with nods. They watched as Rick headed for the gate and began pulling it open. Bracing themselves for what they both knew would be a stressful afternoon, the lovers hefted their gear and walked solemnly past their leader. Carol tensed a little when she heard the heavy, iron gate slam shut behind them.
The air shimmered with heat. A cloudless sky stretched on endlessly and Carol swore she could hear the grass burning. She and her partner had been walking in total silence for ten minutes. Neither wanted to be the first to say anything, but the muffled sound of their footsteps was wearing on her.
"You gonna be like this the whole time?" she asked, her eyes on the ground.
Daryl refused to look at her. "Like what?"
"Never mind."
"You ain't into all the peace 'n quiet?"
Carol ignored him.
"Well maybe I'm just thinkin' real hard about how I oughtta talk to ya."
Grinding her teeth, Carol shot him a look. "If you don't want Rick treating you like a child, then don't act like one."
"I'm childish?" he snapped. "I ain't the one playin' games."
Carol wiped some of the sweat from her forehead as they walked. "And exactly what game do you think I'm playing?"
Daryl stopped in his tracks and stared at her, but all she could do was look back at him with a crease in her brow.
"You really gonna stand there 'n act like you ain't doin' all this shit on purpose?"
She just folded her arms across her chest and waited for him to say something else.
"Don't matter how long we're out here, I ain't gonna cave." he growled.
"Who said anything about caving?"
The hunter could feel his temperature rising as he struggled to keep from snarling at Carol. "You're a goddamn pain in my ass woman." He didn't wait for a response. He simply turned away from her and kept walking.
Carol stood where he'd left her, a smug smile creeping onto her face.
He's gonna crack.
Daryl had always had a terrible temper, but since that heated argument that changed everything for the two of them, he'd had the luxury of using her body as an outlet. She let him unleash the rage that he carried, and he repaid her with climaxes that left her entire frame numb. Just thinking about the way he'd taken her on the bathroom floor made her heart rate speed up. She shivered despite the heat.
When she first offered to join Daryl on his trek beyond the wall, Carol had every intention of seducing him. The state of their world had forced her to become strong, ruthless even…and she was prepared to go without her partner's touch for as long as it took to break his will. But as she listened to the sound of his footsteps up ahead, something inside her seemed to soften. Carol missed him. Turning to follow, she wondered if she'd been going about things all wrong.
Maybe he's right. Maybe this is childish of me.
It was a difficult thing to admit and Carol sighed. As she worked to catch up to him, she couldn't help but to notice their surroundings. They'd strayed from the main road that lead to the gates of their complex and were walking through a field; Carol could see the woodline up ahead. Treetops swayed lazily as a weak breeze blew over the landscape.
There were no walkers…no signs of life anywhere. The heat was slightly oppressive, but even so; the sky was clear and Carol had to smile.
We've inherited the earth.
After weeks of being constantly surrounded by other people, the isolation was a welcome respite. Even if they were at odds, Carol was grateful for the time alone with Daryl. They didn't need to talk, or compete. For the moment, she'd made up her mind to enjoy the day and appreciate the hunter's company.
Feeling a little lighter, she reached her lover's side and fell back into step beside him. Daryl only acknowledged her presence with a fleeting glance out of the corner of his eye. Determined not to speak to her, the hunter refocused on the trees in the distance.
Damn animal's gotta be out there. Bastard's probably lookin' for shade…water.
Lost in his own thoughts, he was completely unaware of the dramatic change that Carol's attitude had just undergone. A sudden rush of happiness was bubbling up inside her. At once anxious and excited, she bit the corner of her bottom lip and casually reached for Daryl's hand.
The contact made him freeze. His brows knit together as he shot her a dirty look. "What are ya doin'?"
She could feel how tense he was as she carefully curled her fingers around his hand. "Nothing."
Daryl glanced down; he wanted to pull away…break the connection…but he couldn't seem to find the will. Carol waited him out, hoping he'd relax.
"I just thought…" she rubbed the back of her neck without looking at him. "We've never…"
The hunter was silent.
Blushing a little, and feeling more ridiculous than she had in a very long time, Carol let her fingers thread with his. "It's just us out here. Thought it might be nice is all."
Daryl swallowed hard. He liked the way it felt to have her hand in his. Her skin was warm…soft. Just as he was about to tighten his grip, something occurred to him.
"Naw. This is just you tryin' shit again."
Carol stared up into his face then, her eyes blue and clear like pieces of cut glass. There was no malice in her expression, not a trace of deception. The picture of innocence, she held fast to his hand and forced herself to speak.
"I'm not trying anything."
"Bullshit."
There was a faint smile on her lips. "Really. I swear. I'm calling a ceasefire."
Daryl rolled his eyes and snorted.
"Come on. Can we at least try this?" her fingers were still tangled with his.
He bristled a little but made no moves to pull his hand from hers.
"What's it gonna hurt?" she asked.
But the hunter wasn't convinced. He'd gotten himself into bed with the best liar in Alexandria and he knew she could turn it on at the drop of a hat. She sure as hell didn't strike him as the type that would want to hold hands.
"I ain't buyin' it woman." he growled under his breath.
She cocked her head to the side. "I'm not selling anything."
"Naw?"
"No."
"Sure you ain't got some kinda fruit in that damn bag of yours? Sure you ain't gonna pull it out 'n eat it real slow in front of me?" he sneered.
She just shook her head in response.
"Then what the hell is this?" he glanced down at their hands again.
Carol took a deep breath and blushed a little harder. "Nothing I…"
"Ya what?"
"Maybe I just miss you. Alright?"
Daryl blinked a few times, trying to make sure he'd heard her correctly.
"We hardly ever get time alone, and I just thought we could try it…but if you don't want to…"
The hunter could feel some of his anger melting. He didn't want to let go of her, and he didn't want her to let go of him.
"Fine," he growled.
Her smile widened.
"We can try. But none of your shit woman. I mean it. You keep that free hand where I can see it."
She let herself chuckle.
"Ain't nothin' funny."
"It's a little funny," she sighed wistfully as they resumed walking.
Daryl's thumb was idly rubbing her knuckles. "It ain't."
"It is."
The hunter couldn't help it. The feeling of her hand in his was so welcome. He held it a little tighter and a small smirk crept onto his face. "Just hush woman. We gotta find this horse."
"I won't say anything else," she teased.
"Mhmm."
Having reached an armistice, the lovers continued on their path towards the woodline, hand in hand.
"I'm just havin' trouble picturin' it is all."
Carol tried to look offended. "Why's that?"
The hunter snorted as he held a low branch out of the way for her.
She had to smile at the gesture. "Thanks."
Daryl just nodded.
"Now why exactly can't you picture it?"
"Can't see ya tryin' to break a colt."
"Well I did."
"Right. Bet your scrawny ass spent more time in the dirt than up on that horse."
"I'm not saying he never threw me…"
"That's what I figured." said Daryl, a smug tone to his voice.
"But I got back up every time."
The air was significantly cooler beneath the shade of the tall trees. Daryl and Carol's spirits seemed to have lifted the moment they ducked into the forest. They hadn't released their hold on one another, and they'd managed to engage in harmless conversation that helped the time pass. Neither would admit that they were actually enjoying their time outside the walls.
The hunter shook his head and chuckled.
"I did. I spent weeks working with him, but I can assure you he broke."
"Ya keep sayin' that."
"Because it's true. I'm surprised you'd doubt me." she mused.
"Yeah? Why's that?" he asked as he stepped carefully over a thick tree root.
Carol paused for a moment. Her eyes roamed the length of Daryl's bare arm, all the way up to his shoulder and the long, shaggy hair that covered the back of his neck. Forgetting herself, she let her thoughts trip off her tongue.
"Because you've seen me ride."
He immediately looked back at her, his lips parting.
Carol couldn't keep the smirk off her face. She knew she never should've spoken those words. She told Daryl that she wasn't going to try anything. But it was all proving to be too much…having his strong, calloused hand in hers…being able to smell the incredible blend of leather and sweat as they moved through the woods together…Carol hadn't been with him in seven days and her own needs were beginning to get the best of her. She wanted to touch him, kiss him…
"Don't." he warned, his voice low.
Carol took a deep breath in the hopes of calming herself. "I'm sorry…I…"
"Naw." His hand went slack as he pulled it form hers. "I know you woman. I know how your mind works. You're just sayin' shit to get me riled. I'm tellin' ya right now…you best quit."
She stared at him then. Sweat had plastered shocks of hair to his temples. His ocean-colored eyes were trained on her. She swore she could feel her core tighten when he licked his bottom lip. As they stood in the quiet forest, studying one another, Carol considered giving in. She pictured herself moving into his space, backing him into the nearest tree and working his pants down his hips. She knew that he wouldn't be able to resist her if she took him into her mouth. Color was slowly spreading across her cheeks.
"Naw." the hunter growled as he took a hesitant step back. "Get that fuckin' look off your face." His breathing had begun to pick up.
Carol couldn't make herself speak. Her blood was growing hot.
Daryl wanted to put more space between the two of them, but he was frozen. His pride was urging him to turn away, but his body wanted Carol. The lovers stood completely still beneath the shade of the trees, their hearts beating heavy in their chests.
Anxious and unsure, Carol slowly opened and closed her fists.
Don't. Don't give in. You're stronger than this.
The words were simple, but she was having trouble believing them. In all her years she'd never experienced such powerful temptation. The force of attraction made her body ache and she was desperate to relieve the pain.
With her eyes fixed on his, Carol swallowed hard and took a step towards her partner. She was watching him carefully, and she could see his lids growing heavy.
He wants it.
The corner of her mouth was slowly hitching up. Daryl felt his groin tighten but he didn't care. His woman was feet away and he loved the way she was looking at him. He wanted her naked, in his lap, with her legs around his waist. He didn't realize that a smirk was creeping onto his face.
Encouraged by her lover's expression, Carol moved even closer. His scent was heavy in the air, making her lightheaded. Daryl stood his ground, waiting on her. A bead of sweat followed the line of his jaw.
Smiling even more, Carol paused to tuck a strand of hair behind her ear.
Fascinated by her lips, Daryl found himself staring at her mouth.
When she noticed, she felt her body get warm. Eyeing her boots, she took another cautious step.
The hunter's body was acting on its own as he dipped his shoulder and slowly shrugged off his heavy pack.
The sound of the bag hitting the soft earth made Carol look up. A small gasp escaped her and her cheeks were glowing pink. She slid her hands into her back pockets and bit her lip to keep from giggling.
Daryl was having trouble processing the fact that she was so close to him. He was ready to reach out and make contact…feel her skin under his fingertips…all he wanted was a connection. His eyes found hers again and the lovers didn't dare blink. Fixated on one another, they seemed to forget whatever argument had kept them apart for the past week.
Carol's heart was thrumming. Her mind grew hazy as she tried to decide whether or not to kiss him. She watched him run a broad hand through his damp hair and knew she'd never wanted anything so badly.
He could see the need in her eyes. Hungry and restless, Daryl finally took a step in her direction. On cue, Carol stood on her toes to meet him just as he cocked his head to the side for the best access to her mouth. Their eyes closed as they prepared to collide. With less than an inch of space between their lips, they froze.
A sharp, unmistakable cry tore through the forest making Daryl and Carol jerk. They immediately began searching for the source of the sound. Their wide eyes scanning the surrounding brush for any signs of movement.
"Where'd it come from?" Carol breathed.
"Don't know. But it ain't far. C'mon." He quickly stooped to grab his pack before moving past his mate.
She turned on her heel to follow. A brisk walk became a run, and the companions disappeared into the forest. With their needs momentarily forgotten, Daryl and Carol picked up the pace and did their best to follow an invisible trail that would hopefully lead them to the painful cry they'd heard.
"Jesus…" She panted, her hands braced on her thighs.
"Hush woman."
Carol lifted her head just enough to shoot him a dirty look. "Oh…I'm sorry. Just a little winded after running what had to be two miles…"
"Will ya quit? Lord." He snorted. "That was a mile 'n a quarter at the most."
"The hell it was…" she huffed.
"Be quiet. I ain't tellin' ya again."
"Excus-" but Carol didn't get to finish.
Daryl held up a hand to silence her. With a quick glance over his shoulder, he let his partner know that he wasn't interested in arguing. "C'mon." he beckoned.
Exhausted and seething, she grudgingly moved to his side. "What Daryl…what is it?"
The hunter carefully pointed ahead to a small break in the brush. Carol's eyes narrowed as she tried to follow her lover's gaze. After several seconds of struggling against the glare of the afternoon light, she managed to spot something.
"Oh my god…" her aching muscles were forgotten as she focused on the moving object. "You knew." she breathed. "You knew he was out here."
Daryl shrugged a little. "Just had a feelin'. That's all."
Ignoring the fact that he was standing so close, Carol kept her focus on the horse in the distance. "How did you wanna do this?"
"Jus gotta see how close he's gonna let us get."
"Yeah?"
He nodded. "Then we get a rope around him."
"I'm assuming you brought plenty then."
The hunter snorted. "Woman I never go on a run without a little rope."
Carol tried to contain a chuckle. In all the time they'd known each other; she was sure she'd never seen him use a rope. "Good thing you're prepared."
Daryl could hear the mockery in her voice. "Say what ya want. We'd be up shit creek without a paddle if I hadn't brought the rope."
She smiled and looked at him out of the corner of her eye. "Mhmm. I think the kid in you is just itching to use it."
He blinked, unsure of how to respond. Carol always managed to see right through him. Each day it grew more difficult to keep things from her. Daryl was beginning to suspect that none of his thoughts were sacred anymore.
"We need it woman. That's all there is to it. You think that damn animal's just gonna follow us back?"
She slowly lifted her hands in mock surrender. "Fine. You're right."
He snorted again for good measure and took off his pack. As he began sorting through the contents, Carol paced in a slow circle.
"Somethin' on your mind?" he groused.
She tried not to look at him. "Nothing important."
Daryl found the large bundle of looped rope and slung it onto his shoulder.
"It's just…"
"Oh for fuck's sake woman…what?"
"Depending on how things go out here…maybe you'll have another chance to use the rope…when we get back." She let her eyes linger on him for half a second before she turned away.
His partner's words instantly conjured images of submission. He could see her…pale, naked… He wanted to fuck her from behind with her wrists bound…the side of her face pressed to his mattress. She'd left him staring at her back and his eyes quickly wandered to her ass. Daryl swore he could feel her smooth walls hugging him as he slid inside her…
Fuckin' christ.
"But I guess we'll see how it goes." she smirked at him over her shoulder.
Daryl's sudden frustration quickly overpowered his lust…or added to it. He wasn't entirely sure. The only thing the hunter knew for certain was that Carol had the ability to pluck his nerves like no one else. He stood up straight, looked right back at her, and used every last ounce of will power to keep himself in check.
"You done?" he breathed.
Carol cast a subtle glance at his groin but couldn't spot any sign of arousal.
He's getting better.
Slightly agitated by what she considered to be a loss, she forced a small smile and refocused on his face. "Guess I am."
Hefting the bundle of rope on his shoulder, Daryl cleared his throat. "You gonna quit fuckin' with me long enough to get this done?"
Still confident that she had a better handle on her sexual urges than he did, Carol turned to face him. Moving even closer, she placed a hand on his chest. Biting the inside of her cheek to contain a shudder, she marveled at how solid he was. His flesh was warm beneath her palm. She could feel the dampness of it…the sweat that was beginning to soak through the thin fabric of his shirt. Carol let herself enjoy the contact for several heartbeats.
Powerless to stop his mate, Daryl stood still and tried desperately to remain calm. He didn't want to think about how many times that same delicate hand had traveled down his body…dipped into his jeans…those same fingers gripping him tenderly…
Carol kept a sigh locked in her chest before meeting the hunter's gaze again. Leaning in just a little closer, she whispered to him. "I'll fuck with you for as long as I want. You can't stop me."
Daryl's cock twitched when he felt her breath hit his lips. His hands were aching to hold her but he knew he couldn't. He looked down at her hand and patiently waited for her to remove it. The seconds seemed to stretch themselves as she flexed her fingertips lightly.
The need to claw him…to rake her nails down his body…it was sending a sharp pain straight to her core. Slowly losing herself in a moment of heat, Carol let her lids grow heavy while she stared at Daryl's shirt. Visions of their time together were coming to life behind her eyes. She imagined the skin she'd find just under his clothes. Slick, toned…trembling. It didn't matter how many times they'd loved one another. Nervous energy always managed to take hold of them at first. It shortened their breath and made their fingers shake while they undressed each other. Carol never wanted to lose that.
The hunter could feel his frustration disappearing the longer his woman stared at him. While she was lost in her thoughts, Daryl studied her face. All he could see was a blend of desire and awe. It eased some of the tension inside him. He still wasn't used to being looked at that way. Being wanted was an instant high and he began to smile. Doing his best not to startle her, he carefully lifted his own hands and reached for her wrist.
Carol blinked as the images in her mind suddenly shattered. She found herself back in the present, staring into her lover's eyes. His calloused hands were gently gripping her wrist, but he hadn't pulled her away from his body. He was letting her maintain the contact.
"What?" she asked softly, still feeling somewhat disoriented.
Daryl's thumbs were rubbing the underside of her wrist out of habit. "Nothin'. Jus makin' sure you're still here with me."
Carol smiled and blushed in spite of herself. "I am," she assured him. "At least…I am now."
With his eyes locked on hers, he tugged at her wrist, lifting it to his mouth. He paused for half a second before nipping at it. Holding the scanty bit of flesh between his teeth, Daryl stared at her and tried to memorize the taste of the salt on her skin. Just as Carol's lips began to part, he released her.
She was doing everything she could to remain calm, but Daryl was making it difficult. It wasn't often that she caught glimpses of this side of her partner. Neither of them were overly affectionate. The hunter wasn't the type to peck her on the cheek and they weren't big on hugs. But at some point, Carol noticed that he had his own way of letting her know that he cared.
She'd always considered Daryl to be more animal than human. So it came as no great surprise that he preferred gentle bites to kisses. The first time he'd gone on a run without her, after their relationship changed, he'd taken her hand and quickly nipped the side of her wrist, smirking at her afterwards.
Carol never told him what it meant to her, but she suspected he knew. He'd done it a few more times since then, and she swore her face lit up every time. She wondered what she looked like right then, standing in front of him, sweaty and exhausted.
"Ya always do that."
"Do what?" she chuckled lightly.
"Start smilin' like an idiot when I bite ya."
Carol couldn't stop herself from snorting. "Well maybe I just like it; alright?"
"Good." he nipped her again.
"Stop…" she pleaded, blushing even harder.
"You gonna help me rope this horse?"
Carol swallowed hard and nodded.
"Alright then. Quit all that grinnin' 'n follow me."
"Yes sir." she sighed before biting her bottom lip.
Daryl had to keep himself from grabbing her by the waist and pulling her body flush against his. Instead, he let his eyes linger on hers for several more seconds as he released her wrist. He could swear the air was growing warmer around them. Carol's expression was making him want her.
"Focus." she said. "One of us has to."
The hunter finally turned away and shook his head.
As they carefully began making their way towards the break in the brush, Carol whispered to her partner. "You got a plan if he takes off?"
"Nope."
"But…"
"Ain't gonna give him the chance."
"You sound pretty confident."
"I am. But I can't do it alone."
"Just tell me what to do." she said as she ducked to avoid a low branch.
He glanced back at her. "Ain't often I hear ya say that."
She fought the urge to smile. "Pay attention. This is your show right?"
"That's more like it," he chuckled under his breath.
Carol rolled her eyes.
"Alright…now when we got about ten feet or so between us 'n him, I want ya to distract him."
"Why me?"
Daryl was tempted to snap at her. She always questioned him. Instead, he mastered himself and let the moment of frustration pass. "Because you're good at it." he mused.
She arched an eyebrow. "Good to know."
"Think about it…that animal sees two of us comin' outta the trees…who's he gonna run from?"
"You think you're that intimidating?" Carol teased.
Daryl bit the inside of his cheek to keep from saying anything stupid. "Ya got a softer voice, you're smaller…he just ain't as likely to take off at the sight of ya."
"Whatever you say boss."
Ignoring the bait, the hunter continued on his path. "Step outta the woodline nice 'n slow, get his eyes on ya, start talkin' to him if ya gotta."
"I can do that."
"I'll try 'n get a rope around him. Hopin' he ain't gonna give us too much trouble. Bettin' he was run off a farm somewhere nearby."
"Guess we'll see."
"We're gettin' close. Go on ahead. I'm gonna circle 'round, off to the side."
Setting the playfulness aside for the moment, Carol cleared her throat and moved past her partner. She looked back at him, but he just nodded, urging her on. She saw him heft the bundle of rope on his shoulder before he took off in the opposite direction.
With her head low, Carol crept closer to the break in the trees. She could hear the horse whickering quietly every few seconds.
It's fine. Just go slow. No sudden movements. You'll never hear the end of it if you do something to scare this damn horse off.
Clearing her head of useless doubts, she paused near a young oak and braced her hand against the bark. She stared at her target with narrowed eyes. His nostrils were quivering as he grazed cautiously in the small clearing. Black ears pricked up and she wondered if he could hear Daryl moving through the brush.
"Easy…" she whispered to herself as she took another step forward.
But Carol stopped short when a familiar scent reached her nose. Her hand instinctively drifted down to the knife that hung from her belt. She scanned the clearing quickly, desperate to spot the walker she knew was there. Realizing she didn't have a way to let Daryl know without startling the horse, Carol grew anxious. Her eyes darted from the horse, to the surrounding trees, before finally resting on something in the grass.
It couldn't have been more than a few feet from where the horse stood grazing. Carol studied the corpse and saw that it was headless.
Well shit…
"He must've kicked the thing's head off…" she breathed.
In that moment, she wasn't sure whether she should be relieved that the horse had eliminated the threat on its own, or nervous about the prospect of being its next victim. No stranger to the pain of broken ribs, Carol intended to keep a safe distance. Steeling herself, she took another step and felt the white heat of the afternoon fall across her body. Just beyond the shelter of the trees, she took a calming breath and brought her fingers to her lips. With her blue eyes trained on the large animal, she took a chance and whistled.
He lifted his head suddenly and snorted. The instant he spotted Carol he began to retreat. His steps were shaky and unsure.
"Hey…easy. Easy. It's alright." she said. "No one's gonna hurt you." Slowly raising her empty hands, Carol showed him she didn't mean any harm.
But the horse wasn't convinced. He let out a sharp cry before backing even further away.
"Easy." she pleaded with him. Her tongue darted quickly over her lips as she held the animal's gaze.
"It's alright," Carol repeated softly. Sensing that she only had seconds before he made another attempt to run, she called out to her partner. "Daryl…I think now would be a good time." Her hands were still raised and she was trying to keep them from shaking. Sweat was beading on her brow.
The hunter blew out a breath before emerging from the woodline. Soft grass muffled his steps and the horse seemed unaware of his presence. Slowly unwinding the length of rope, Daryl cast a furtive glance at his mate. She wouldn't look at him.
Smart cookie.
Returning to his task, he tied a knot, fashioning a lasso. He took a stance, making sure he had plenty of slack on the line, and got a feel for the weight of the rope.
Carol was focused on the horse, but she could make out Daryl's form in the periphery of her vision.
Just a little longer…I just need to keep him here a little longer.
The animal's dark eyes were wide and glassy. His entire frame was subtly trembling as he struggled with indecision. Carol knew he was afraid.
"Easy boy. Look at me. You're alright. Just look at me…"
Unconvinced, he lifted one foreleg and prepared to take another step backwards.
"Hey…easy. You look at me." The softness in her voice was replaced with a slight edge. The time to appease the animal had passed, and Carol was demanding obedience. A warm drop of sweat slid from her temple. "Daryl…you need to move."
Heeding her warning, he loosened his wrist and began swinging the end of the lasso. He kept the arc small at first, not wanting to draw attention. But as his narrowed eyes gauged the distance between himself and the horse, Daryl knew he had to go bigger.
Scarcely daring to breathe, the hunter bit his bottom lip and raised his arm higher. The rope continued to swing, forming a an oversized halo above his head. Momentum was building with each circuit.
Desperate to hold the animal's attention, Carol extended her arm. Her pale palm was facing the sky, and her fingers were spreading like the points on a star. Acting as if she had something to offer, she leaned forward…her hand outstretched towards the horse. "See? Look…that's it. Keep those eyes on me."
Her fingertips flexed on instinct, and the slight motion seemed to trigger a silent alarm. The horse screamed suddenly, forcing Carol to cover her ears in pain. Tossing its mane, the animal reared up, pawing angrily at empty air. His cry grew louder as he jerked his massive head to the side and spotted the hunter.
"Shit!" Daryl breathed.
The animal was agitated…scared. The whites of its eyes were visible as it screamed. Tangled locks of black hair flew wildly in its face and strong teeth were bared to the sky. All Daryl could do was bite his lip harder and widen the arc of his lasso.
Your ass ain't goin' nowhere…
The horse brought its hulking frame back down to earth…hooves pounding into the dirt… creating vibrations that Daryl and Carol could feel in their boots. Fearing for the hunter's safety, Carol called out to him, her voice barely audible over the horse's shrill screams.
She could see her mate standing his ground, his brow furrowed in concentration. His stance was aggressive and she knew he had no intentions of letting the horse get away. Daryl wasn't the type to abandon a mission, even if it meant risking injury…or worse. Unable to look away, Carol tried to prepare herself for the worst.
Please…
Ready to unleash his anger on something, the horse used its powerful back legs to kick at phantom enemies.
"Daryl!" She cried again.
"C'mon…" the hunter muttered as he swung the rope even faster.
The muscles in his arm were protesting; his wrist was beginning to ache with the effort, but it didn't matter. He shook strands of sweaty hair out of his eyes and focused on the target. Breathing through his nose, he dug his heels into the ground and readied himself.
The animal's patience was gone. He pawed the earth, advancing in Daryl's direction before lifting his upper body into the air. The wall of muscle was towering over the hunter, eclipsing the sun. Silhouetted against the white light, the horse lashed out restlessly with long legs.
In that moment, Daryl blocked everything out. The screams ringing in his ears…the body heat pouring off the animal in front of him…the sound of his own name falling from Carol's lips… All he cared about was the rope in his hand. His eyes were slits as he snarled and finally let the lasso fly.
Startled, confused, the horse threw his head back and bellowed…but it was too late. Daryl and Carol watched in awe as the rope spun in mid-air before coming down around the animal's thick neck. The hunter was so shocked at the success that he nearly forgot to grip the opposite end of the rope.
"Shit!" He yelled before grabbing the rough cord and pulling tight. His hands burned as the horse struggled to free itself. It jerked again and again, its head moving from one side to the other. It stamped the ground, sending clumps of dirt and grass flying.
The animal was strong, but Daryl's will was stronger. He clenched his teeth and held fast to the rope, refusing to let go. With every muscle straining, the hunter fought to keep the horse from running. As the two opposing forces battled one another, Carol stood dumbstruck. She knew what she needed to do…what she was supposed to be doing.
I have to help him…
But she couldn't seem to make herself move. The spectacle had Carol's attention and was holding it with an unshakeable grip. Her lips parted and her eyes grew wide as she watched Daryl pull the rope harder each time the horse jerked its head. His arms shone with sweat. She swore she could see the clear droplets following the curves and lines that defined every last muscle. His bicep was quivering and she knew he must be in pain.
He was growling and spitting curses at his adversary. Carol couldn't help but to picture him in bed with her, doing the same things. The sound of him swearing was enough to make her walls open. Knowing that he wasn't afraid of the volatile creature at the end of the cord only added to his appeal. He was ruthless. When properly motivated, Daryl had more energy…more physical stamina than anyone she'd ever met. Being able to witness such an incredible show of force was almost overwhelming. The heat grew worse and Carol's hands met each other at the back of her head…fingertips clawing weakly at her damp hair.
She looked from the horse's flying mane, to the trembling cord, and finally to her lover's incredible hands. Tanned, calloused…his knuckles white…she thought of all the pleasure she'd experienced at those hands…all the times she'd bitten into her own lip to keep from screaming…the red lines she'd left on his shoulder blades…down his back…
The animal continued to resist, pushing up dirt with its hooves and bucking every chance it got. Flecks of liquid flew from its nostrils as it snorted in defiance. Unwilling to submit, Daryl stared his rival down and tightened his grip on the rope. He forced any thoughts of the burning pain from his mind.
"C'mon you son of a bitch," he breathed.
Licking his bottom lip, the hunter pulled hard and heard the horse cry out in protest. Turning to spot his mate, Daryl called for help. "Carol!"
Forgetting her desires, she forced herself to act. When she reached Daryl, he quickly urged her to get behind him. Carol grabbed the rope and used all her strength to pull. She could smell the heavy musk of her lover's sweat, the grass beneath her boots…A swirling storm of sound surrounded her. The hunter continued to let curses fly hot from his lips while the rope bit into the flesh of his palms.
An unforgiving sun seemed to crackle and hiss overhead, scorching the earth. Carol slammed her eyes shut as the light reflected off the silver-green blades that covered the clearing. The horse's power was frightening, but Carol trusted the man in front of her. If he believed they could break its will, then she would lend herself to the effort. Sucking in a strained breath, she maintained her grip. The dirt under her heels was giving way…she was slowly being dragged forward.
Seething, Daryl glared at his captive. The rope, completely taut, was vibrating. Sick of the struggle…sick of hearing the animal scream…and sick of the fire he could feel between his fingers…the hunter put his back into the fight and spat out a final command.
"Enough!"
The lone word hung suspended between man and beast. Whether he'd understood the threat, or his strength had begun to fail, the horse finally stopped pawing the ground. His dark forelegs were flecked with freshly turned earth and his hide had grown damp. Snorting after every labored breath, the animal slowly lowered its head in defeat. A sudden stillness had fallen over the clearing.
With their hearts still thrumming, Daryl and Carol couldn't seem to relax their grips on the rope. The tension hadn't left their limbs and their fingers remained curled. Afraid to let go, the companions held their positions. They scarcely allowed themselves to blink. The hunter kept his blue eyes on the horse, daring it to move. He cautiously licked his bottom lip.
Minutes passed and no one moved. Drops of sweat fell and hearts gradually slowed. When the blood stopped pounding in his skull, Daryl began to loosen his stiff fingers. Taking her cue from her partner, Carol did the same. She hissed when fresh pain shot through her hands…it seemed to pulse within each of her fingertips.
Her throat felt dry, strained, but she needed to speak. "Daryl."
He acknowledged her with a small grunt but refused to look over his shoulder.
Concerned and curious, she slowly released the rope, letting it rest on the grass. Carol felt clumsy as she forced her legs to move. Stepping around her partner, she approached the exhausted animal.
The motion seemed to break Daryl's trance and the furrow in his brow deepened. "Car…" he started to call to her, but the word died on his tongue.
She took care with each step. If he noticed that she was advancing, the horse didn't let on. His head hung low and his ears lay flat against his neck. Standing in front of the beast, Carol broke the silence.
"Hey. Easy. Alright? I just wanna make sure you're okay."
Her voice piqued the animal's interest and he lifted his head to stare at her.
Carol was intimated by his height for a moment, but she swallowed hard and stood her ground. "Easy." With a shaking hand, she reached up and touched the side of his face.
He trembled at the contact.
"That's it." she breathed. Her fingers spread as she kept her palm pressed to his cheek. She could see herself reflected in the glassy surface of his wide eyes. "You're alright, aren't you?"
Daryl watched in silence as his woman began to stroke the horse's neck.
"Yeah." She whispered. "You're alright. See? We're not gonna hurt you. Think you might wanna head back with us?"
The restless captive let out a soft snort.
Carol cast a quick glance over her shoulder. "Daryl…You should try to mount him."
"Ya sure?"
Her hand followed the curve of the animal's neck. "Yeah. Think I got him calm enough."
With a nod, the hunter inched closer. He only dared to release the rope when he was standing right next to the animal. Gnawing his bottom lip, he placed two broad hands on the horse's back.
"Easy." said Carol. She continued to pat him, hoping to keep him from running. "It's nothing you haven't been through before."
Daryl summoned all the strength he could and pushed, hoisting himself up. He quickly swung a leg over the horse's side and felt the animal stir underneath him. Reaching for the rope, he braced himself for another fight.
"It's alright. No one's hurting you. We just wanna get you home. Okay?" Carol took a moment to comb her fingers through his mane. The black hair a stark contrast to her pale skin.
He blinked in response, his long lashes coming together for half a second.
Smiling, Carol moved to stroke his brow. She was nervous, but he was so soft to the touch that she couldn't help but to slide her hand down his snout. He snorted, his nostrils quivering. Finally accepting that the woman in front of him meant him no harm, the horse pushed his nose against her palm, urging her to continue.
She chuckled before rubbing his snout again. "You're fine."
The hunter gripped the rope and sat up straighter, trying to get a feel for his mount. His eyes drifted down to Carol and he could see the smile on her lips. He watched as his mate kept the animal under control with nothing more than soft touches and hushed words.
"Okay. You gonna let me on?" With her bottom lip caught between her teeth, and her palms pressed to either side of the horse's face, Carol waited for any sign of protest, but none came. She gave him one last pat before stepping away and moving to his side.
"Ready for me?" she asked as she stared up at Daryl.
He leaned over and offered his hand. She gripped it hard and hauled herself up. Working to steady herself, Carol instinctively wrapped her arms around the hunter's middle, her body fusing to his. The lovers seemed to freeze when they realized how close they were.
Daryl looked down at the small hands that were clutching the front of his shirt. He could feel her chest…flush against his back. The hunter had one palm resting against his thigh while the other held fast to the rope. He swallowed hard and tried to focus.
The instant she mounted the horse, everything faded. Her muscles stopped aching and her breathing slowed. She forgot about whatever argument or principle had been keeping them apart. Pride, competition…nothing mattered. She was alone with Daryl; she was finally close to him. Savoring the feeling of him in her arms, Carol closed her eyes and nuzzled his back with her brow. The worn leather of his vest was warm, familiar…a sigh escaped her and she held him tighter.
Daryl felt his stomach flip. He was trying to remember the last time she'd held him. He'd always been resistant to human contact, until Carol. She made him crave it. He didn't know how, or why, but she made him want it…even if it was nothing more than her hand ruffling his hair, or her head leaning on his shoulder. The hunter wasn't sure if the need for contact made him weaker or stronger, but he liked the way her feet felt against his when they slept together.
"You good?" he asked casually.
Carol's nails were clawing lightly at his shirt. Her eyes were still closed and another sigh passed her lips before she could stop it. "I'm okay. You?"
Daryl let himself smirk a little. He could hear it in her voice; she wanted him.
Woman's gonna cave.
Confident that his partner's needs would overtake her soon, he cleared his head and readied himself for the ride back. "Think he's gonna let us lead him alright?"
Carol let her cheek rest against Daryl's vest. All she could do was smile and hold him tighter. "He won't give us any trouble. Think you wore him out."
"Damn sure tried anyway." the hunter muttered.
She chuckled behind him. "You did. Let's go."
"You wanna get him started for us?" said Daryl as he worked to quickly pull up the rest of the rope.
Slowly easing her eyes open, Carol sat up straighter and put her heels to the horse's side. "Yah."
The animal snorted in response and began moving. Daryl did his best to guide him back towards the woodline. "That's it. C'mon," he whistled.
"See?" said Carol. "He's fine."
"Mhmm. This sumbitch throws us…I'm blamin' your ass."
She rolled her eyes. "He won't."
"I don't know what makes ya so sure. Ain't like I do this shit every day."
Carol used her grip to keep their bodies flush. "I think you've gone bareback enough times…"
Daryl didn't miss a beat. He used his free hand to reach back and swat her thigh.
She hid her face between his shoulder blades and dissolved into a fit of laughter.
The hunter shook his head as they disappeared into the thick of the forest.
Trees filtered the sun's light, keeping the travelers cool below. Their sweat had dried, and their hearts had slowed as their steed carried them back through the brush at a lazy pace. He'd proven himself as a mount as far as Daryl was concerned. He responded to every little command, every tug of the rope, and the hunter was convinced that the animal had been quietly helping them avoid walkers. On several occasions, he'd stopped in his tracks and his black ears had pricked up. Daryl figured the horse was catching the scent of rotten flesh and working to select the safest path home.
He had an easy gait and the slight swaying beneath her seemed to be lulling Carol to sleep. She'd planned to keep her lover company and act as co-pilot, but the feeling of his body close to hers made her feel safe, content, and her lids began to grow heavy. The hunter noticed that his woman's grip had gone slack and she was leaning against him rather than sitting up. As much as he wanted to feel her clutching at his shirt, and hear her voice, Daryl didn't have the heart to disturb her.
She's earned a break.
He was exhausted, and would've loved the chance to rest his eyes, but he knew he never could've gotten the horse to come with them if Carol hadn't been there. She made the difference. The animal trusted her.
Your dumbass probably woulda just run the damn thing off.
Realizing how lucky he was to have her, Daryl made a habit of reaching back to gently rub her thigh. He didn't mind the quiet if it meant his woman had some time to recover.
"Don't you worry none. We'll be home soon." He said softly, his hand on her leg.
She stirred slightly, mumbling something into his back.
Daryl smiled. He liked the sounds she made when she was sleeping. With his attention torn between guiding the horse, and enjoying how close Carol's body was, the hunter failed to realize that the trees had begun to thin. The sudden increase in light made him blink. Lifting a hand to shield his eyes, Daryl tried to determine if they were in the right place. He pulled gently on the rope, urging his mount to halt.
They'd stepped out of the woodline and into an open field. The horse seemed to be at ease which was a comfort.
No walkers nearby.
Glancing left and right, Daryl managed to get his bearings. It was the same field he and Carol had crossed earlier in the day.
Home ain't more than a mile or two off.
A warm, summer breeze blew past, making the hunter shake the hair out of his eyes. As they stood at the edge of the forest, Daryl did something he wasn't known for. He took in the moment. His back was straight as he sat tall and proud on a worthy mount. The rope felt good, secure in his hand. He stared out at the grass all around him and watched it glow in the late afternoon light. Satisfied with what he and his mate had been able to accomplish, the hunter took a deep breath and let it out slow.
With fresh air in his lungs, and the person he cared for most in the world wrapped around him, Daryl was happy. He knew the peace wouldn't last; it never did. But right then, with Carol, everything was alright. They'd achieved their goal, unscathed, and had something incredible to show for their efforts. Wishing that they could have more days like this, he gave the horse's neck a pat and whistled. "C'mon."
The sudden sound pulled Carol back from the brink of sleep. She could smell grass, sweat and smoke. The combination of familiar scents gave her a temporary high and she hugged her partner hard.
"You up?" he asked.
"Barely." she admitted.
"Home ain't far."
Without over thinking the action, Carol reached up to part the long shocks of hair at the back of Daryl's neck. The instant his skin was exposed she kissed him. It was light and sweet, lasting only for a moment, but it still made her temperature rise. She smiled afterwards, her lips lingering near the nape of his neck. The scent was even stronger with his hair so close. Carol couldn't help but to breathe him in.
The hunter sat completely still but for the motion of the horse beneath him. The sensation of his lover's lips barely touching his skin was enough to make him freeze. He could feel her warm breaths, one after the other, hitting his neck. His heart rate quickened as he tightened his grip on the rope.
"Thanks for letting me rest, and for getting us back in one piece," she whispered.
Daryl's throat seemed to constrict when she uttered those hushed words against his skin. She kissed him again and he jerked the rope, causing the horse to stop short. Swallowing hard, Daryl turned to look over his shoulder; he found himself face to face with Carol. They stared at each other, neither knowing exactly what to do or say.
Carol kept her eyes on his while her hands traveled slowly up and down his back. She wasn't even trying to hide her smile. The hunter didn't speak. He simply turned away from his mate and slid off the horse's back. After setting down his pack, Daryl reached up and held out an open palm.
Blushing a little, Carol ran a hand through her hair. "What are you doing?"
"Just c'mon."
Knowing she couldn't resist him, she swung her leg over and let him help her down.
"Now what?" she asked, a playful tone to her voice.
"Hang on." He grabbed the horse and lead him towards a nearby tree. They'd been following the woodline. Daryl made sure to tie a strong knot around a low branch. He rubbed the animal's snout before heading back in Carol's direction.
She watched as he got closer. Her anticipation continued to build as the space between them shrank. "You still haven't told me what we're doing." she said.
He cleared his throat when he reached her. "It's jus…we're gettin' close to home...'n I...I was thinkin'…" but he never finished the thought.
Carol's lips were pressing into his and his hands found their way to the small of her back. They stood together, holding the connection until the need for air forced them to separate. Breathing hard, smiling, they studied each other.
"What was that?" he asked, licking his bottom lip.
She shrugged and occupied herself with a loose button on his shirt.
"Carol…"
Finally lifting her chin, she met her partner's gaze. "Nothing."
He was rubbing the spot above her tailbone. "Didn't feel like nothin'."
"I guess…" she paused, trying to collect her thoughts. "I guess I just got tired of it."
"Of what?"
"Not touching you." The confession fell softly from her lips and she wondered if she'd said too much. "Why'd we stop here?"
The hunter admired the woman in his arms. He could tell that sleep hadn't completely relinquished its hold. Her lids were heavy and she looked so beautifully drowsy. The field was filled with golden light, making the blush on her cheeks that much brighter.
"Maybe I was tired of it too." he admitted.
Carol felt her breath catch and she refocused on his shirt.
"Hey." He used one hand to gently tilt her chin up.
Her blue eyes found his.
"Let me wake you up." he growled softly, his thumb trailing across her cheek.
All of Carol's pride…her will power…it all seemed to desert her in that moment. She stood on her toes and kissed her man. He held her body close to his with one strong hand. So grateful to be touching, Daryl and Carol indulged in one another. She rubbed his chest while his lips moved against hers.
Smiling into their kisses, the lovers were instantly, wonderfully overwhelmed. In just a few heartbeats, they'd become ensnared in something greater than themselves. The hunter needed her softness…her skin, her lips…everything she was willing to give him. Carol wasn't whole without him. She wanted his scent on her body…his hair between her fingers. When her lips parted, his tongue slipped into her mouth.
A moan was building deep in her chest while Daryl continued to taste her. She clawed his shirt and broke the kiss, gasping for air. "Oh…my god…" she breathed.
"What?" he asked, a flush beginning to spread on his face.
"You don't know how much I've missed that."
The hunter snorted, his hand moving down her body until he was clutching at her ass. "I don't?"
Carol was still trying to catch her breath.
"I don't know what it's like to go a week without so much as a handshake from you?" He gave her flesh a gentle squeeze. "I don't know what it's like to see somethin' I want right in front of me 'n not be able to touch it?"
"Ok," she pleaded, her fingers splaying on his chest. "I get it."
His eyes narrowed as he squeezed her ass harder. "Ya coulda been gettin' it every night this week…" he teased.
Carol held his gaze. "I was upset."
"All the more reason…"
"Good to know that's how your mind works." she smirked.
"I still can't believe your ass…cuttin' me off just because of a run."
"I don't like watching you leave." Some of the playfulness seemed to have left her voice.
Daryl moved his hands to her waist and held her lightly. "Hey. I don't like leavin'. 'N I sure as hell don't like watchin' ya walk through them gates without me."
The lovers were silent. Another breeze blew past. They were both struggling to find solutions in their own minds.
"I ain't goin' through this shit again," he growled.
The corner of Carol's mouth quirked up in amusement.
"Thought it was us. That's what ya said…back in the closet. I ain't goin' another week without touchin' ya."
"No?" she asked, her eyebrow arching.
"Ya can't just go usin' that pussy 'n them tits to get what ya want."
Carol's lips parted, her brows knitting together. She pried her partner's hands off her body and turned away in disbelief.
"That's all you care about, isn't it? You didn't miss me. You missed parts of me." She walked a few feet and folded her arms tightly across her chest. With her back to the hunter, Carol let herself smile.
"Woman…"
"What?" she snapped without looking at him. She was making every effort to keep from laughing.
"You know that ain't true. I'm just runnin' my mouth cuz it's been a long ass week. You did this. This is what I'm like without ya."
Carol bit the inside of her cheek and remained silent.
Lacing his hands behind his head, Daryl kicked at the ground. "I'm sorry; alright? But ya can't deny that's what ya been doin' all week. Keepin' everything under lock 'n key to break me."
Deciding that he'd suffered enough, she finally turned around to face him. There was a smile on her mouth as the two locked eyes.
The second Daryl saw the look on her face his arms fell to his sides. "Why do ya do that? Why are ya always fuckin' with me?"
"I'm sorry. I couldn't help it," she laughed.
He snorted, his eyes narrowing.
"Maybe you shouldn't make it so easy for me to push your buttons." said Carol.
She was trying the hunter's patience. He stared hard at his woman while a storm of emotions and urges began to churn inside him. Aroused, agitated, tired and slightly lonely, Daryl tried to decide on his next move. He wanted Carol. They'd spent more than enough time apart. He wanted to make up for the days they'd missed…to do all the things he'd been thinking of since the last time they touched.
Daryl knew he'd never fully understand the woman in front of him. He guessed that was part of the fun. But there was one thing he'd learned since their relationship changed; frustration and desire went hand-in-hand. The whole reason they'd crossed the lines that used to exist between them was anger. They'd fought until their bodies met. Daryl suspected that even when he was inside her, and the two of them were moving together while Carol lay struggling on the counter…they'd still been fighting.
It's always gonna be a fight with her.
He had to smirk at that. He liked the challenge. If either of them were the submissive type, the hunter knew there would be no heat. It was the constant need for control that made the lovers swear and cry out for each other. The sweat on their sheets and the marks on their skin were the results of small power struggles played out in the middle of the night.
Tasting his lover on his bottom lip, Daryl decided to push back. He stood his ground, letting the wind ruffle his hair. With his hands on his hips, he shrugged.
Carol cocked her head to the side. "What? You're gonna pout now?"
"Naw."
"Then what are you doing?" she asked.
He turned his head to spit. "Nothin'. Was thinkin' we're wastin' time. Oughtta be gettin' back."
She blinked a few times. "What?"
"I sure as hell ain't gonna stand here fuckin' around with you all afternoon." He started walking back towards the horse.
"Daryl…" she sighed.
"Naw. For a second…ya had me thinkin' we were past all this bullshit."
"I was just playing."
"You do an awful lot of that."
"That's not all I do." she called out, hoping to pique his interest.
Daryl glanced back at her and their eyes met. They held the connection, each of them hoping the other would cave.
"It's all ya do lately." he growled.
Frustrated, Carol folded her arms across her chest. "So that's it then? You're gonna throw in the towel just like that?"
The hunter looked away and continued walking towards the woodline where the horse stood tethered. "Unless you wanna change my mind."
Carol ran her hands over her face and blew out a breath. "Daryl…"
But he ignored her. He'd nearly reached the trees.
"Just…just wait." she sighed.
"Why?" he growled.
"Because."
Daryl stood still beneath the shade of the trees and waited.
Swallowing just enough pride to get the words out, Carol called to her lover. "I want you."
He stopped just a few feet from the horse and enjoyed his victory in silence. With his back to Carol, the hunter let his lips curve into a small smile. Once the neutral expression was back on his face, he turned around.
They stared at each other for several seconds.
"Keep goin'." he urged.
She arched an eyebrow.
"You wanna keep me here…best tell me what it is ya want." He was slowly coming towards her.
Carol felt color forming on her cheeks. She couldn't seem to stand still. As she began walking in Daryl's direction, she let her needs trip off her tongue.
"I want you," she repeated.
The hunter continued to stare her down.
When the two hungry people finally stood in front of one another, Daryl was the first to speak.
"Tell me," he growled softly.
She reached for his hands and lifted them. The calloused skin felt incredible and she seemed to realize how much she'd missed his touch. "I want these," she breathed.
He watched in awe as she brought his fingers to her lips and kissed each of them, her eyes closing… When she'd finished, Carol released him. But Daryl's hands didn't go slack. Instead, they moved to her hips.
"I want this," she whispered, running her hands down his shirt…from his chest all the way to his belt. She savored every second…everything she could feel. The ridges of his collar bones, the planes of his chest and stomach… Her fingertips brushed the bare skin below his navel when she gripped his waistband.
It was Daryl's turn to close his eyes. He bowed his head while his woman touched him.
Overcome by her need for the man in front of her, Carol used her grip on his waistband to pull his body closer. She pushed her hips into his, making them both gasp.
Daryl kept one hand on her hip while the other traveled up her back, his fingertips flexing as he clutched at her shirt. Carol's face was hidden in the crook of his neck.
"I want you." she said again, her arms circling his middle.
Daryl held her tighter, his chin resting near her shoulder. "I want ya too."
Carol smiled against his skin.
They stood together, in the middle of a hazy afternoon, letting warm light wash over them.
"You done playin'?" he asked.
She nipped at his earlobe before whispering. "Not even close."
Daryl grinned. "Good."
More to come soon! I promise :) xoxoxo
-Sami